Happy Easter

Do not be amazed. You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen. He is not here. Behold the place where they laid him.Mark chapter 16 verse 6Do not be amazed! God is a loving Father who so loved us that he was willingto sacrifice his son to save us. Surely this message should strengthen our faith. We should not be amazed at what Jesus can do in each of our lives. His love is transforming and redemptive even in the midst of suffering.

John Saxbee, in his book WAYMARKERS, a route map through lent to Easter, reminds us that it is the resurrection of Jesus that began the Christian movement. We begin on a high note, as Jesus defeats the power of death. At the same time it was a terrifying experience for Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome when they received the message, no matter how good the news. Tom Wright in SIMPLY JESUS tells us that when Jesus rose from the dead on Easter morning he rose at the beginning of the new world that Israel's God had always intended to make. The resurrection of Jesus, he adds, is the only explanation for the rise of Christianity. Jesus of Nazareth, after three days being 'very thoroughly dead' was 'very bodily and very thoroughly alive again'.

When we announce to the world that Jesus Christ is risen, He is risen indeed. He challenges us to live in a new way and act on behalf of the vulnerable, to follow him. He has overcome the world.

Prayerfully remember those who suffer for their faith, or who are fleeing from danger; for those who face atrocities evident in the world news. Especially remember nurses and doctors who care for them and whose own lives are at risk.

Pray for compassion in our own nation and a turning to the gospel especially within our own professions.

Pray that we would be a prominent witness to the Lord Jesus Christ and disciple and mentor others in their walk with God.